Richard Franiec creates custom grip for Panasonic GM1

Accessory grip maker Richard Franiec has created a custom grip for the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM1. The grip is made from anodized aluminium alloy and should improve handling when using the GM1 with larger Micro Four Thirds lens. It weighs about 20g and leaves the battery/card door and tripod socket unobstructed. As usual, the grip attaches to the camera using high-strength 3M double-sided tape, but can be removed if necessary. It should be available later this month and cost $34.95 plus shipping.

Franiec has also made similar custom grips for many popular cameras including the Sony Cyber-shot RX100, Nikon 1 V1, Canon Powershot S100 and Olympus PEN E-PL3/E-PM1. They're generally well-regarded by customers, and we've like the ones that we've tried.

If you're a pro or semi-pro, this is the kind of camera that you have an a supplement or adjunct to your main gear. When I'm working, I'm usually working with two DSLR bodies. But now that I also use m4/3, I carry a third ultra-compact m4/3 body, like the GM1.

Recently, I was traveling. Again, with two DSLRs on me. It gets rather heavy. This time, I traveled with 1 DSLR, one m4/3, and kept my 2nd DSLR in my luggage (as backup). Honestly, for 80% of the my images, you can't tell which were shot with m4/3 (no flash, no eye level viewfinder). Believe it or not, talent counts for a lot. And, truly, m4/3 allowed me to get a lot of shots I wouldn't otherwise be able to with my DSLR because it's so compact, and it's a lot less noticeable to take a shot without sticking a camera to your face. (And conversely, there are shots that were done better with my DSLR). My advice: just get one! Develop the skill.

If you insist on having a grip, check out this one:http://flipbac.com/camera-grip-about.htmI reckon model G3 would suit the camera nicely. $9.99 is a more reasonable price too. Me personally, no added grip is the best option. I bought one for my RX 100 and ended up with just leather 'skin' - same finish as GM1 comes with as standard.

I have this already installed on my GM1 and am pleased... just as happy as I was when I installed one on my Sony S90. I emailed Richard when I ordered the GM1 asking about availability and he returned an email letting me know it was in the works. High quality product and excellent service.

The process of removing the grip is provided if you need to take it off for some reason. Reportedly there will be no damage to the camera but I am not sure why you would want to... it adds to the utility without extra bulk, and even looks good. My S90 has had a similar grip installed for several years and it had held tight.

thank guys, I noticed that grips for other cameras with smooth surfaces are larger and this one is smaller for GM1 got a leather-like rubberized skin. so Richard Franiec should have decided that the grip be at least strong enough to rip the skin off.

I assume Pana 12-35/2.8 and Oly 75/1.8 (both 305g) should be popular lenses for this camera making it more challenging than XZ1 and similar/Sigma cameras.

It's not a "need". People simply have different preferences. I'd sa that the overwhelming majority of GM1 buyers are going to use the camera as is, with no "need" for an add-on grip at all. Just because something is offered as an *option* does not mean that it's a *need* for everyone.

DPR particularly hates the M. It's a great mirrorless with the june '13 firmware and price cut, possibly the best considering the price, yet it seems they never touched it anymore after their first hand on.

I like everything that Richard Franiec has designed for all the camera styles. My only issue is using the grips with a protective ever-ready case. I have inexpensive Chinese pleather ever-ready cases on my G12, my LX7 and my GX7. The half case provides both extra camera protection and a thicker feel to the camera body. The top half, once attached, provides lens protection and dust protection. All for under $20.00 USD. Granted the half-case doesn't have that perfect tactile feel of the Franiec grip, but it does so much more for the money. Just my opinion.